As deep and succulent as the seeds of a pomegranate comes the birthstone of January, garnet. This stone received its fitting name from the Latin word “granatus” meaning “grain” or “seed”. Though it deeply resembles the pomegranate seed, it isn’t something you want take a bite of. The garnet has a Moh’s hardness of 6.5 to 7.5, which will definitely damage teeth.
The garnet is most commonly known for its deep red hue, but it does have a variety of others such as, muted yellows, vibrant oranges, rosy pinks, lime greens, and violets. This bouquet of colors is due to the varying levels of elements within each gem.
This stone has no shortage of myths behind it. During Biblical times, it was said that Noah hung this gem on the Arc to light his way through the dark and stormy nights. In Greece, the garnet was linked to the story of Persephone, the sunshine goddess. Persephone was abducted by Hades, god of the underworld. Hades eventually released her but sent her on her way with seeds of a pomegranate, which guaranteed her return to him.
Archaeologists have found primitive style garnet jewelry among the graves of lake dwellers dating back to the Bronze age. Not all garnet is of gem quality and can be used as an abrasive for commercial grinding and polishing. Industrial sandpaper is often coated with garnet.
Today, the garnet continues to be the protective gem of journeyers. It is thought to symbolize love and the desire of a loved one’s safe travels and speedy homecoming.
